Coventry University’s London campus is planning to double its student intake in the next academic year.

After opening in Dagenham’s former civic centre in September 2017, the university recruited around 500 students for its first year.

That figure is expected to rise to 1,100 students for 2019, with 30 more academic staff being employed as a result.

Andy Ginn, associate pro vice chancellor at CU London, said: “This is a very exciting time, we have huge ambition for continued growth over the coming years and this is the start of that.

“To have recruited to target in our first year from a standing start is an incredible achievement and we are ready to take another big step forward in readiness for September.

“We have a great team here - our staff and students are enjoying their experience and we’re all looking forward to the incredible opportunities ahead.”

The Grade II listed site in Rainham Road North was restored with a £4.5 million investment, and the university offers courses at lower fees than the £9,250 maximum.